Belfast's Historical Landmarks Quiz

Answer: 1870

It was designed by Charles Lanyon in a deer reserve, and was the residence of the 3rd Marquis of Donegall. The first "Belfast Castle" was built by the Normans in the late 12th Century. The second was the home of Sir Arthur Chichester and was built in 1611, only to burn down in 1708.

Answer: A Railway Hotel

A worthwhile place to visit for a quick drink before hopping on the more modern railway at Europa Train Station. It dates back to 1826 when the first train ran from Belfast to Lisburn. It has since been taken over by The National Trust and restored, therefore ensuring that people will be drinking at it for many years to come.

Answer: 1888

It wasn't only street names that were named after Victoria. A hospital, a university, a park and a man-made island (to name but a few) were also named in her honour. Belfast quickly grew to a population of 300,000 due to the effects of the Industrial Revolution.

Answer: Charles Lanyon

Charles Lanyon has designed many of the most beautiful buildings in Belfast. Queen's University also has fine mock Tudor cloisters, as well as a reputation for being one of the most respected universities in the world.

Answer: Brumwell Thomas

The Belfast City Hall took six years to build (1898-1906) and if you have ever seen it you would realise why. This stunning white structure takes up one and a half acres of the city and is covered in statues and ornamental designs. Inside is decorated with fine Roman marble and has a grand sweeping staircase. Brumwell Thomas also designed the war memorial cenotaph in Belfast and is famous for his works of art and sculpture.

Answer: Samson and Goliath

It is often erroneously stated that the cranes were used in the construction of the "Titanic", but in fact they are of much more recent vintage, dating from 1969 (Goliath) and 1974 (Samson). Nevertheless, they have become a landmark symbol of the city, and a poignant symbol of Belfast's shipbuilding heritage.

Although there was once talk of removing them, there was such an uproar about it that they were classified as buildings of 'architectural or historic interest' and are hopefully now safe for ever.

Answer: Robert Burns

Along with the Robert Burns collection, there are also over 20,000 archives items relating to Irish politics and culture. These can be viewed and read if you make an appointment. If the work make you thirsty, there is even a coffee house, and during the summer you can join a guided tour.

Answer: It is the most bombed hotel in Europe

During the troubles it was the stage for many bomb attacks by Republican forces, as foreign dignitaries used it as stop-off when in Northern Ireland. Since its refurbishment it now has ballrooms, bars, restaurants, fitness suites, saunas and a four-star rating.

Answer: It includes stone gathered from all 32 counties of Ireland

I am unsure if it was a gesture of Irish unity at the time or a simple coincidence!
Belfast is built upon an underground river called the Farset, so when the Cathedral was constructed great care had to be taken when laying the foundations. The water table in the Cathedral area is still high and the foundations are closely monitored for any sign of movement.

Answer: "What return shall we make for so much?"

Perhaps not a direct question about Belfast landmarks, but the motto is very poignant given the history of the city; and the coat-of-arms can be found on many buildings in Belfast. Some are carved in stone, others in brilliant metals. One of the best examples is on the front of City Hall. There is also an elaborately decorated version in the Ulster Museum.